Teeth whitening

Teeth whitening is one of the most popular procedures in cosmetic dentistry. White, shiny teeth are not only aesthetically attractive, but also an important factor that increases self-confidence. Teeth, one of the most important elements of our smile, may lose their natural whiteness over time due to various factors. In addition to beverages such as coffee, tea and red wine, smoking, aging and some medications can also cause staining and yellowing of teeth. Fortunately, it is possible to achieve a natural and healthy smile with teeth whitening procedures.

There are various methods available to whiten your teeth, and in this article we will examine each of these methods in detail. Professional teeth whitening methods are divided into two main categories: office whitening, which is usually applied by a dentist, and whitening kits that can be used at home. Office whitening is a fast and effective method performed under the supervision of a dentist and using strong whitening gels and laser or light. This method often provides significant results even with a single session.

Home whitening is a method that you can apply at home using whitening plates and gels specially prepared for you by your dentist. In this method, you can gradually whiten your teeth by wearing the aligners regularly for a certain period of time. Although home whitening requires a longer treatment, very effective results can be achieved with regular use.

Additionally, there are whitening toothpastes, whitening strips and other whitening products available in the market. These products generally contain lower concentrations of whitening agents and produce slower results than professional methods. However, with regular use, these products can also provide visible whitening of teeth.

WHAT IS TEETH WHITENING?

Teeth whitening is an aesthetic dentistry procedure performed to remove stains and color changes on the surface of the teeth. Over time, teeth may lose their natural whiteness due to various factors such as consumed foods and beverages, smoking, aging and side effects of some medications. Teeth whitening eliminates these discolorations and makes teeth appear whiter and brighter.

Teeth whitening can be done both in the professional dentist’s office and at home. Professional teeth whitening is a method performed under the supervision of a dentist and generally provides faster and more effective results. This method is done using powerful whitening gels and often activators such as laser or light. These methods applied by the dentist usually provide significant whitening even in a single session and more permanent results are achieved.

Teeth whitening methods applied at home can be done using whitening kits provided by the dentist or commercially available whitening products. Whitening kits recommended by the dentist usually include personalized trays and whitening gels. These trays are worn regularly for a certain period of time to gradually whiten the teeth. Whitening products available in the market include a variety of options such as whitening toothpastes, whitening strips and gels. These products generally contain lower concentrations of whitening ingredients and produce slower results than professional methods.

Although teeth whitening is a safe and effective method, it may not be suitable for everyone. People with dental health problems such as gum disease, cavities or sensitive teeth should first have these problems treated. Additionally, teeth whitening is not effective on dental restorations such as veneers, fillings and crowns, and color differences may occur in these areas.

WHY DO TEETH CHANGE COLOR?

Color changes in teeth may be due to various reasons. These reasons may arise from both environmental factors and individual characteristics. Here are the main factors that cause color change in teeth:

FOOD AND BEVERAGES

One of the factors that most affects the color of teeth is the food and drinks we consume on a daily basis. Colored drinks such as coffee, tea, red wine and some fruit juices can stain teeth. Pigments called chromogens found in these drinks adhere to tooth enamel, causing color change over time. Additionally, colored foods such as soy sauce, tomato sauce, and strawberries can similarly leave stains on teeth. Acidic foods and drinks erode tooth enamel, causing teeth to stain more easily.

TOBACCO USE

Cigarettes and other tobacco products cause yellow and brown stains on the teeth. Nicotine and tar found in tobacco penetrate the tooth enamel and cause permanent stains. It is known that smokers have an increased risk of bad breath, gum diseases and oral cancer, as well as tooth discoloration. Continued use of tobacco products may also reduce the effectiveness of teeth whitening treatments.

AGING

As we age, tooth enamel thins, which can cause teeth to appear more yellow. The dentin layer under the tooth enamel naturally has a yellowish color, and as the enamel layer thins, this yellow color becomes more noticeable. In addition, as we age, stains that accumulate on the surface of the teeth and become difficult to clean also contribute to color change. Regular dental care and professional cleanings are important to maintain the natural whiteness of teeth during the aging process.

TRAUMA

Impact or trauma to the tooth may cause the tooth to change color. Dental trauma, especially during childhood, can affect tooth development and cause color change. Trauma can damage the blood vessels and nerves inside the tooth and cause bleeding inside the tooth. This may cause the tooth to turn gray or brown over time. Additionally, cracks in the tooth enamel resulting from trauma can also make the tooth more vulnerable to staining.

MEDICINES

Some antibiotics, such as tetracycline, and some high blood pressure medications can cause teeth to discolour. The use of tetracycline group antibiotics, especially during childhood, can cause the teeth to become permanently yellow or gray. Additionally, some cancer treatments, such as chemotherapy and radiation treatments, can also cause tooth discoloration. It is important for people who are at risk of tooth discoloration to take into account the dentist’s recommendations and take the necessary precautions.

GENETIC FACTORS

Some people may genetically have yellower teeth. Tooth color may differ from person to person depending on genetic structure. Some individuals’ tooth enamel may be thicker and whiter, while others’ enamel may be thinner and yellowish. Genetic factors affect the natural color of the teeth, as well as their response to whitening procedures. People with genetically darker teeth may benefit less from whitening procedures.

HOW SHOULD CARE BE AFTER IMPLANT?

Post-implant treatment care is an important part of ensuring the longevity of implants and maintaining oral health. Here are the importance of post-implant care and some suggestions:

• Regular and Effective Dental Hygiene: It is important to practice regular and effective dental hygiene to clean the gums and surrounding implants. Brushing your teeth every day, using dental floss or an interdental brush, and gargling with an antiseptic mouthwash reduces plaque buildup around implants and prevents the risk of infection.
• Regular Check-ups: It is important to visit your dentist regularly after implant treatment. By checking the condition of the implants and gums, the dentist can detect and treat possible problems at an early stage. Generally, a dental checkup once or twice a year is recommended.
• Healthy Eating Habits: A good diet helps keep implants healthy and strengthen their integration with the bone. Consuming a balanced diet improves chewing function and supports the long-term success of implants.
• Avoiding Smoking and Alcohol Consumption:  Smoking and excessive alcohol consumption can negatively affect the success of implants. These habits can slow the healing process of implants and increase the risk of infection. Therefore, smoking and excessive alcohol consumption should be avoided if possible.
• Beware of Teeth Clenching and Grinding Habits: Bad habits such as teeth clenching or grinding can cause damage to implants and surrounding tissues. In this case, it is important to talk to your dentist and use a suitable protective appliance or practice stress management techniques.

Post-implant treatment care is critical to the long-term success of implants. Therefore, it is important for patients to pay attention to the above recommendations to keep their implants healthy and problem-free.

IMPLANT PRICES

In addition to being an effective method to treat missing teeth, implant treatment is also a factor that affects the budget of patients. Implant treatment prices can vary depending on a number of variable factors and it is often difficult to give an exact price. However, some of the main factors that affect implant treatment prices are:

• Number of Implants: Implant treatment prices vary depending on the number of implants to be treated. Patients with multiple missing teeth may require more than one implant, which can increase costs.
• Implant Type: There are different types and brands of implants. Some implants may be more expensive, while others may be more affordable. Therefore, the type of implant to be used is an important factor affecting the price.
• Surgery and Additional Procedures: Additional surgical procedures and additional materials that may be required during implant treatment may increase the cost. For example, the need for additional procedures such as bone grafting or sinus lift may affect the price.
• Experience and Expertise of the Dentist: The experience, expertise and techniques of the dentist are also factors that affect the price. An experienced and specialized dentist can often charge higher fees.
• Material and Technology Used: The quality and brand of implant materials, prostheses and other materials used are also an important factor affecting the price. The use of higher quality materials and advanced technology can often lead to higher costs.

Giving an exact price for implant treatment depends on the individual situation and needs of the patient and is usually determined after a preliminary examination and evaluation. Therefore, it is important to seek professional advice from a dentist to get accurate information about implant treatment prices.

TEETH WHITENING METHODS

Teeth whitening methods generally fall into two main categories: professional dentist whitening and at-home whitening methods. Both methods use a variety of techniques to make teeth appear whiter and brighter. In this article, we will examine each of these methods in detail.

PROFESSIONAL TEETH WHITENING

Professional teeth whitening methods are methods performed under the supervision of a dentist and generally provide faster and more effective results. These methods are carried out using powerful whitening gels and various activators. Professional whitening methods include office whitening and professional at-home whitening.

OFFICE TYPE WHITENING

• Laser Whitening: Laser whitening is performed by activating the whitening gel applied on the teeth with laser light. Laser light increases the effectiveness of the gel, allowing teeth to whiten in a shorter time and more thoroughly. This method is fast and effective, and significant results are usually achieved in a single session. Laser whitening is an ideal option for people who have a busy work schedule and want to get results in a short time.
• UV Light Whitening: The UV light whitening method is performed by shining UV light on the whitening gel applied to the teeth. UV light activates the active ingredients in the gel, allowing teeth to whiten faster. This method is also a method that gives fast results, and the desired whiteness can usually be achieved in one or several sessions. UV light whitening is similarly effective to laser whitening and is suitable for those who want to get results in a short time.

HOME TYPE PROFESSIONAL WHITENING

• Personalized Plaques: Whitening gel is placed in the trays prepared according to your dental molds taken by your dentist and used at home for a certain period of time. These trays fit snugly onto your teeth, allowing the whitening gel to spread evenly over the tooth surface. The aligners are usually worn for a few hours a day or overnight, allowing your teeth to gradually whiten over a few weeks. This method is a safe and effective option because it is under professional supervision.
• Professional Whitening Gels: High-intensity whitening gels recommended by your dentist are used at home. These gels are applied to the teeth for a certain period of time according to the instructions given by your dentist. Professional whitening gels contain higher concentrations of whitening agents than commercially available products and therefore provide faster and more effective results. Professional whitening at home is an advantageous method in terms of both comfort and effectiveness.

WHITENING METHODS DONE AT HOME

Home whitening methods are usually carried out with products recommended by the dentist or sold in the market. These methods may not produce results as quickly as professional whitening, but they can be effective with regular use.

• Whitening Toothpastes: Whitening toothpastes contain mild abrasives to remove stains from the surface of the teeth. When used regularly, it can help reduce superficial stains on teeth.
• Whitening Strips: Whitening strips are attached to the teeth and left for a certain period of time. These strips deliver whitening agents evenly to the surface of the teeth and visible results can be achieved within a few weeks.
• Whitening Gels and Pens: Commercially available whitening gels and pens are applied directly to the teeth and left for a certain period of time. These products can help remove stains from teeth and provide effective results with regular use.

TEETH WHITENING METHODS AT HOME

Teeth whitening procedures are not only performed under the supervision of a professional dentist; There are also many methods that can be applied at home. Home teeth whitening methods are frequently preferred because they are lower cost and easy to apply. However, the effectiveness of these methods may be more limited than professional methods. Here are the main methods used for teeth whitening at home:

WHITENING TOOTHPASTE

Whitening toothpastes contain mildly abrasive ingredients to remove stains from the surface of the teeth. These pastes can be used as part of a daily teeth cleaning routine and can help make teeth look whiter with regular use. Whitening toothpastes often contain abrasive ingredients such as silica or baking soda and can remove surface stains without damaging tooth enamel. However, they have limited effectiveness in removing deep stains. Therefore, they are recommended to be used in conjunction with other whitening methods for more stubborn stains.

WHITENING TAPS

Whitening strips are thin, flexible strips that are adhered to the teeth and left for a certain period of time. These strips allow whitening gel to be applied evenly to the surface of the teeth and are typically used for 30 minutes twice a day. Whitening strips are popular because they are easy to use and portable. Users usually see noticeable results within a few weeks. However, care should be taken to avoid the strips coming into contact with the gums, as the whitening gel may cause irritation to the gums.

WHITENING PENS

Whitening pens are portable and easy-to-use products that contain whitening gel that is applied to the teeth. The pens contain a fine brush to apply gel to the surface of the teeth. After applying the gel to their teeth, users leave it for a certain period of time. Whitening pens are especially ideal for people looking for a quick and practical whitening solution. Being small and portable, they can be used anywhere and at any time of the day. However, the effectiveness of the pens is more limited than professional whitening methods and requires regular use.

To summarize; Teeth whitening is an important part of aesthetic dentistry and can be accomplished using a variety of methods. When deciding which method is most suitable for you, the best approach would be to get advice from your dentist. Having a white, bright smile increases your self-confidence and improves your overall appearance. The decision you make to whiten your teeth will yield the best results by protecting your dental health and using the right methods.

The first step to having a healthy and attractive smile starts with determining the most suitable teeth whitening method for you. Learn how to make your teeth whiter by making an appointment with your dentist and get the smile of your dreams with customized solutions. Take action for a whiter, healthier smile and contact your dentist today.